Canton · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Canton public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
2026 City Budget and Employee Compensation
Management and non-bargaining employees would get a 3% pay bump starting January 2027. It affects the city's payroll costs and, indirectly, the budget taxpayers fund.
Data Center Zoning and Community Concerns
Before the meeting, committees will hear a presentation about data centers — likely about attracting them and what they mean for city utilities and tax base.
Faircrest JEDD Data Center Tax Abatement
Council held a tax abatement ordinance for the Faircrest Joint Economic Development District in committee, scheduling a special public meeting on May 12 to hear community feedback regarding data centers.
$20 Million Private Water Line Replacement Project
Council advanced legislation to accept $1.5 million in OPWC grants and zero-percent loans for water main and sewer improvement projects in the Mount Vernon and Croydon/Brookpark areas.
Water and Sewer Rate Study
Service Director Highman presented upcoming utility rate adjustments, noting that average monthly water and sewer bills will increase by about $6.36 starting March 29. Officials emphasized that despite these hikes, Canton's rates remain significantly lower than state averages.